The oleander, which becomes impressive over the years, is one of the most popular ornamental and container plants - even though the plant, which is native to the Mediterranean climate zone, is classified as quite sensitive in our country. In fact, the flowering shrub not only requires very intensive care, but is also particularly at risk for a number of diseases and for infestation by various vermin. In the following article you can find out which pests are often found on oleanders and what you can do about them.
Aphids are among the most common pests in oleanders
aphids
Aphids can be found on almost every plant. There are only a few plants that avoid these sap-sucking insects. The green, black or yellow little creatures are only found on the soft parts of the oleander, i. H. mainly on the inflorescences and on the young shoots. They damage the plant not only by sucking off the plant sap, but also by excreting it with a high sugar content, the so-called honeydew. These sweet excrements in turn attract ants, but also primarily serve as a food source for sooty mold fungi.
What helps against aphids
Above all, showering the oleander with a sharp jet of water helps against aphids. Water mixed with a few squirts of washing-up liquid also helps very well. In the case of a severe infestation, the use of a suitable insecticide is recommended.
spider mites
Like aphids, spider mites are not particularly picky about their host plants. However, the tiny little animals are particularly fond of oleanders, which is why spider mite infestation on these shrubs is very common. As a rule, the infestation is already very severe when the signs are already visible to the naked eye: You can then see fine, cobweb-like webs on the plant, and the leaves in particular also turn silvery. Spider mites only appear when the weather is warm and dry.
What helps against spider mites
High humidity helps very well against spider mites, which is why the oleander should be wetted all over with water from time to time using a spray bottle, not only if it has already been infested, but also as a preventative measure. Rapeseed oil-based remedies available in specialist shops are also very effective, whereby you should treat the underside of the leaves in particular and repeat the procedure every few days.
Scale and Mealybugs
The brown or black scale insects are also quite common on oleanders. These are also insects that suck plant sap and excrete a sticky-sweet secretion. These excrements, in turn, attract both ants and sooty mold fungi. An infestation with mealybugs, on the other hand, is quite rare, but not unlikely. These plant lice can be recognized by their fluffy white shields.
What helps against scale and mealybugs
Plant lice are quite stubborn, but can be easily removed with soft soap (€44.90). However, mechanical removal is very difficult, especially in the case of larger oleanders. In the case of a severe infestation, in many cases only a strong pruning can help.
tips
Prevent pest infestation by regularly spraying the oleander to increase humidity.